What size should carry-on luggage be? 🧳11 Best Carry On Luggage For Travel – Pack Light, Travel Smart!

What size should carry-on luggage be? Most airlines allow carry-on luggage that measures up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. However, it’s always best to check with your specific airline to ensure your bag meets their requirements.

Ever struggled with finding the perfect carry-on luggage that fits all your essentials and is easy to handle? I’ve been there, frustrated by bags that are either too small, too heavy, or just plain awkward to carry.

After trying out different options, I finally found the best carry on luggage for travel. These bags are not only spacious and lightweight but also meet airline size requirements and make traveling so much easier.

If you’re tired of the hassle and want a reliable solution, let me share my personal experience to help you find the best carry-on luggage for your next trip.


🤷‍♂️ What is carry-on luggage?

Carry-on luggage is a piece of luggage that a traveler brings onto the airplane with them. Carry-on luggage must also be able to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of the traveler.

Common types of carry-on luggage include suitcases, duffel bags, backpacks, laptop bags, and other small luggage items.

Finding the carry-on luggage for your needs in the vast world of socks might be challenging. but we have done that research for you. We selected Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner which is really worth buying.

Sale
Amazon Basics Suitcase, Hardside Luggage with…
  • DURABLE AND RELIABLE: This suitcase is crafted…
  • EFFORTLESS MOBILITY: Glide smoothly through…
  • EXPANDABLE CAPACITY: The hard shell suitcase…
  • ORGANIZED INTERIOR: This travel suitcase helps…

Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


🧐 Things To Consider When Buying carry-on luggage [Buying Guide]

When shopping for carry-on luggage, here are some factors to consider:

  • Size: Make sure the luggage meets the size requirements for your specific airline. Most airlines have size restrictions for carry-on luggage, typically around 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches.
  • Weight: Check the weight limit for carry-on luggage on your airline. You don’t want to have to check your luggage at the gate because it’s too heavy.
  • Material: Choose luggage made from durable materials such as hard-side polycarbonate, polypropylene, or ballistic nylon. These materials can withstand the rigors of travel and are less likely to get damaged.
  • Spinner Wheels: Four spinner wheels allow the luggage to roll smoothly in any direction, making it easier to maneuver through busy airports and crowded streets.
  • Locking Mechanism: Look for luggage with a secure locking mechanism to keep your belongings safe.
  • Organization: Consider luggage with internal organization features, such as packing cubes, pockets, and compartments, to help keep your items organized and easy to access.
  • Brand: Research different luggage brands and read reviews to get an idea of their quality and durability.
  • Price: Determine your budget and look for luggage that fits within it while still meeting your needs and preferences.
SaleBestseller No. 1
Samsonite Freeform 21-Inch Hardside Carry-On…
  • The Perfect Size: The textured, scratch-resistant…
  • Stay Organized: This small hard-sided carry-on…
  • Effortless Travel: Glide through airports easily…
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Bestseller No. 2
SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage, Dark…
  • Rolling Suitcase: Get through a crowded airport or…
  • Multiple Front Panel Pockets: Featuring front…
  • Secure and Durable: Expandable travel case gives…
  • Effortless Organization: This luggage bag…
SaleBestseller No. 3
Wrangler Luggage Set, Beige, 20″ Carry-On
  • 3 piece set includes: 20″ Carry on luggage and 2…
  • Expands for extra packing capacity
  • Luggage has 4 spinner wheels for improved and…
  • Luggage material: ABS hard-shell that’s light yet…

Last update on 2024-12-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


📝 Here is the List of 11 top Carry On Luggage for travel

After a lot of research and considering buyers’ reviews, we have shortlisted some of the best carry on luggage for travel.

1. Luggage Platinum Elite 21-inch Expandable Carry-on Spinner Suiter By Travelpro

When a carry-on bag is both small and well-organized, it performs well. It should also be tough enough to withstand prolonged transportation through the airport and hoisting into an airplane’s overhead compartment.

We recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner as the finest carry-on bag because it is a dependable solution for frequent flyers.

This soft-side spinning suitcase has an interior volume of 46 liters and weighs less than 8 pounds. This luggage is well-equipped, so you can use it to pack for both a business trip and a quick weekend excursion.

A garment bag and a wet bag are provided for goods like dress shirts and other items you wish to keep wrinkle-free.

Additionally, the compression straps feature two little mesh bags that are ideal for carrying toiletries and other miscellaneous items.

The compact wheel casings don’t take up much space inside the compartment, and the entire suitcase can extend by up to 2 inches to accommodate hurried additions.

Additionally, it has a USB port for easy on-the-go charging, although you’ll still need to provide the power bank.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner lives up to its reputation as a reliable travel companion for flight crew and is a champ to spin around.

It is known for tracking easily and reacting well to changes in direction since it has four pairs of magnetically matched wheels.

Sale
Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry…
  • Expandable carry on suitcase with external USB…
  • This carry on luggage has a PrecisionGlide System…
  • These suitcases with wheels have a drop-in, fold…
  • This luggage has tapered expansion design keeps…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read: 11 Best Under Seat Luggage With Wheels


2. Eco Advance Medium Spinner By Samsonite

Make your journey simpler by packing well-organized, well-equipped luggage. During our testing, the Samsonite Eco Advance Medium Spinner received good marks in each category and features interior and external pockets to keep your travel necessities close at hand.

It is our preferred option for baggage and is produced from dependable recycled polyester from rPET bottles, making it a green option.

The telescopic handle is a special feature that enhances the suitcase’s movement because it can be adjusted in 1-inch increments to fit your preferred height. The suitcase’s 360-degree spinner wheels support the weight when you push or pull it,

but according to our tester, the bag tracked better when it was tilted on one set of wheels. If not, it finds it difficult to track straight.

We were able to carefully pack five clothes, two pairs of short boots, heels, cleats, and sandals, together with two purses, two novels, a mug, a bottle of wine, and various beverages in the Samsonite Eco Advance Spinner’s deep and spacious interior.

Compression straps help you maximize space while maintaining the stability of your folded things. Given that this Eco Advance Spinner cannot be expanded, this functionality is crucial.

Samsonite Eco-Glide Softside Luggage with Spinner…
  • MADE WITH RECYCLED FABRIC – All fabrics,…
  • UNIQUE, WRAP-AROUND FRAME DESIGN – Lighter…
  • SAGUARO WHEEL SYSTEM – Engineered for lighter…
  • NEWLY-DESIGNED, HIDDEN EXPANSION SYSTEM – Keeps…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


3. Chasm Sport Duffel Bag By Thule

You’ll understand why Thule called this duffel bag the Chasm Sport Duffel after you unzip its broad, spacious aperture.

This alternate baggage option holds all of your things for camping, trekking, or a long weekend away and has an excellent capacity of 90 liters.

It was without a doubt one of the duffel bags that our testing crew liked the best, and its waterproof tarpaulin fabric is tough enough to withstand inclement weather and rack up many miles.

In our tests, it received great grades for durability, in part due to the premium materials and padded bottom of the bag.

The Thule Chasm Sport Duffel offers an additional packing cube and fits four complete clothes plus two pairs of shoes with ease.

There are two mesh zipped pockets on the lid of the bag that provide some interior structure, but this duffel bag lacks an exterior pocket.

The two aspects that users are most likely to notice are the absence of a shoulder strap. The changeable straps, though, were deemed to be useful by our testers for carrying this bag, even when it was completely laden.

Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag 90L, Poseidon
  • Rugged, weather-resistant duffel perfect for…
  • Oversized, wide-mouth opening for easy access to…
  • Easily convert from a duffel to a backpack
  • Durable, waterproof tarpaulin fabric

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


4. Winfield 2 Hardside 28-Inch Spinner By Samsonite

When you’re lugging your bag through a crowded airport, lifting it into an overhead bin, or rolling it down the sidewalk of a new city, a lightweight suitcase makes life easier.

McCardell notes that a light bag is easier to carry and provides more space for your items while staying under underweight constraints.

Since hardshell bags’ outer shells are made of lightweight materials like polycarbonate, ABS, or aluminum, they typically top lists of the best lightweight luggage.

Our testing team tested several lightweight luggage alternatives that weigh 7 pounds or less, but the 6.7-pound Samsonite Winfield 2 won out for its flexibility and organizational capabilities.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage…
  • 28″ Spinner luggage maximizes your packing power…
  • Packing dimensions: 28.0″ X 19.75″ X 12.5″,…
  • 10 year limited warranty: Samsonite products are…
  • 4, multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless…

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


5. CoPilot Luggage Roller XL By Timbuk2

Despite having soft sides, the Timbuk2 CoPilot Roller Suitcase is known for being durable enough to handle the rigors of lengthy travel. Six pairs of pants, six shirts, two coats, one dress, three pairs of shoes, a purse, books, a bottle of wine, and a mug were all stuffed into the XL size.

Then we dropped it three times from an 8-foot ladder, battered it with a baseball bat, and pushed it off a ledge five feet above a cobblestone street. After all that, the only thing left on the bag was some welting on the fabric and some dirt.

Nothing inside was damaged, and crucial parts like the handle and wheels were still present and still worked well. Without a doubt, this choice is the best on the market for luggage durability.

The Timbuk2 CoPilot line is used by many travel industry professionals, including pilots and flight attendants, and the company is well-known for its lifetime warranty. Despite having a 108-liter capacity, this bag weighs only 10 pounds.

TIMBUK2 Copilot Luggage Roller, Carbon/Fire, Small
  • THE CO-PILOT: An ultra light rolling clamshell…
  • KEEP IT ORGANIZED: Integrated ID window for fast,…
  • CLEVER EXTRAS: Reinforced grab handles on all…
  • MATERIALS & FIT: Medium roller is 22″ high and the…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read: Best Travel Accessory And Luggage 


6. Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage By Travelpro

Hardside luggage is not for everyone. This Travelpro choice is a well-liked Amazon alternative if you want soft-side luggage.

It has four spinning wheels that easily rotate 360 degrees, is arguably the lightest on the list, and even expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing space.

Additionally, if you want a carry-on with lots of compartments, this is the finest option. It has a side accessory pocket, a full-length internal lid pocket, and two outside compartments. 23 x 14.5 x 9 inches is the size of the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on…
  • A half pound lighter than the maxlite 4 version,…
  • 4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth…
  • Expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing…
  • Case Dimensions: 19 in x 15 in x 7.75 in, Overall…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


7. Sympatico Expandable 21-inch International Spinner By Briggs & Riley

This dazzling bag has everything you need. The Sympatico is one of Briggs & Riley's top-selling carry-ons.

It includes dual swivel wheels, an impact-resistant polycarbonate casing, and an incredible compression system that makes it possible to quickly compress it back down to size after adding 22 percent more weight within.

Given the lifetime warranty, which is the best in the business, it is definitely worth the cost.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hardside International…
  • Recessed handle helps minimize wrinkles in…
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle system…
  • Built-in TSA-friendly combination lock secures…
  • Molded soft-touch top and side carry handles with…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read: Best Carry-On Luggage With Laptop Compartment


8. Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels By Samsonite

This one’s for you if you tend to only bring a small amount of clothing or mementos with you when you travel.

One of the greatest expandable alternatives available is the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels.

In addition to this helpful function, its micro-diamond polycarbonate shell makes it ideal for the frequent traveler as it is scratch-resistant and maintains its new appearance even with everyday use.

Sale
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with…
  • 20″ SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power…
  • PACKING Dimensions: 19″ x 14.5″ x 9.5″, Overall…
  • 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are…
  • MICRO-DIAMOND POLYCARBONATE texture is extremely…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


9. Flight Bag By Bellroy

This flexible travel companion, weighing only 1.35kg, is designed for light travelers who don’t want to sacrifice either performance or aesthetics. one of the top pieces of small carry-on luggage.

The Bellroy Flight Bag is made of recyclable, water-resistant fabric and reinforced with a tonne of useful organizational features, making the move from the airport to the conference room simple.

The best thing, though? If you don’t slip it over your suitcase handle, you can carry it as a briefcase, a backpack, or over your shoulder.

Bellroy Flight Bag (Professional Carry-on Shoulder…
  • This spacious softshell carry-on is perfect for…
  • A separate access compartment holds a laptop up to…
  • The durable clamshell design unzips fully, for…
  • Carry it like a briefcase by its leather handles,…

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


10. Baseline CX International Carry-on Spinner By Briggs & Riley

If you want to comply with the rules for international carry-on luggage, you should have this suitcase. Additionally, this Briggs & Riley design features the company’s ground-breaking zipperless CX compression expansion technology.

Ballistic nylon is a fabric that is designed to endure abrasion, wear, moisture, and dirt, keeping its sharp appearance over time.

Additionally, there is a quick-access pouch between the handlebars on the back of the bike, which in our opinion is perfect for keeping your passport and boarding pass while you are waiting to board.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside Medium Checked…
  • Our medium expandable upright uses fully…
  • Ballistic nylon outer fabric resists wear,…
  • Outsider handle provides greater interior capacity…
  • V-groove handle tubes are stronger and guarantee…

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


11. 21-Inch Hardside Spinner By AmazonBasics

A less expensive piece of luggage is perhaps something to think about if you just travel sometimes.

Amazon's luggage line appears to be on to something in the luggage department, as evidenced by the over 19,000 five-star reviews.

To keep items as safe and wrinkle-free as possible, this little polycarbonate spinner has all the necessities, including expansion, zipped sections, and an internal compression system.

Sale
Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On…
  • DURABLE AND RELIABLE: This suitcase is crafted…
  • EFFORTLESS MOBILITY: Glide smoothly through…
  • EXPANDABLE CAPACITY: The hard shell suitcase…
  • ORGANIZED INTERIOR: This travel suitcase helps…

Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Carry On Luggage For Travel

There are a lot of questions that come to mind while choosing carry-on luggage, some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

Q. What size luggage is allowed for carry-on?

A. Carry-on luggage is typically allowed up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels, depending on the airline.

Q. Can 24-inch luggage be a carry-on?

A. No, 24-inch luggage usually exceeds the standard carry-on size limit and may need to be checked.

Q. Is TSA strict about the carry-on size?

A. Yes, TSA and airlines enforce carry-on size limits strictly, especially on full flights.

Q. What is not allowed in a carry-on?

A. Items like liquids over 3.4 ounces, sharp objects, and flammable materials are not allowed in carry-on luggage.

Q. Are hard-shell carry-ons better than soft-shell?

A. Hard-shell carry-ons offer better protection for your belongings, while soft-shell bags are generally more flexible and can provide additional exterior pockets. The best choice depends on your personal preference and travel needs.

Q. How much should I spend on carry-on luggage?

A. The price of carry-on luggage can vary widely. Investing in a high-quality bag may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run. There are also budget-friendly options that offer good value.

Q. What is the lightest carry-on luggage?

A. Some of the lightest carry-on luggage options are made from materials like polycarbonate or high-denier nylon, which offer a good balance between weight and durability.

Q. Can I bring a power bank in my carry-on?

A. Yes, you can bring a power bank in your carry-on luggage, but it must be carried in your hand luggage, not checked. Be sure to check the airline’s regulations regarding battery size and capacity.


😇 Conclusion

Choosing the best carry-on luggage is about finding the right balance between size, durability, weight, and style. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re looking for something lightweight, durable, tech-friendly, or eco-conscious, there’s a carry-on out there that’s perfect for your needs.


🗨️ Which of these carry-on bags do you think is the best? Let us know in the comments.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with Fiery Trippers. Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.



Avatar of Tushar Chaudhary

He has a diverse educational background with expertise in travel content creation and digital marketing. His self-motivated learning approach has made him a well-rounded professional in the field. Read More

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